New school building officially opens its doors

The £2.4 million revamp of the buildings at Rawmarsh Monkwood Primary has replaced the previous infant school building which was separate from the junior school.

The two schools were amalgamated into one school in September 2008 and the new building now forms an extension to the existing junior school bringing all pupils 'under one roof.'

Housing four classrooms all on one level, the new infants building also includes a new main entrance and staff accommodation for the whole school.

The Mayor of Rotherham, Councillor Shaun Wright, said: " As both a governor of the school and the parent of two sons that have been educated at Monkwood I'm delighted to be able to perform this ceremony. This amalgamation and now the new building have really helped to move the school forward."

"This is another fantastic example of the investment in school buildings which we have seen in communities across Rotherham in recent years. These new learning environments are providing a major boost to pupils, staff and the wider school community."

The new building aims to be almost carbon neutral and includes a central atrium area which creates a naturally ventilated area for the school.

Headteacher Liz Gee said: "To see the children's faces the first time they saw their new building was a delight. The extension has really lived up to expectations and it's a lovely place for the staff and pupils to work and learn in.

The work on the school was prioritised by Rotherham Borough Council as part of the Primary Capital Programme of school improvements due to the need to replace the previous building following the amalgamation of the two neighbouring schools.
 
The building, which cost £2.4 million was designed by the Council's in-house Architects Department and was built by Henry Boot Construction.

In addition a new sports pitch is being created on the former infant school's playing field.